Sepp Straka has declared that his primary goal for 2025 is to secure a spot on the European Ryder Cup team and compete at Bethpage Black, a venue known for its challenging atmosphere. Straka made his Ryder Cup debut in 2023 in Rome, where he earned one point from three matches, including a noteworthy victorious partnership with Shane Lowry against Rickie Fowler and Collin Morikawa in the foursomes on the tournament’s first day.
Europe triumphed at the 2023 Ryder Cup with a score of 16.5-11.5 under the leadership of captain Luke Donald, successfully reclaiming the trophy they had lost two years prior in Wisconsin. In an exclusive interview, Straka expressed his excitement about the upcoming event, stating, “Playing in Rome was an incredible experience that has only intensified my desire to compete again.”
He emphasized the importance of mental strength, remarking, “Handling the pressure will be crucial, as we will be facing intense expectations from all sides.” Straka underlined the extensive preparations already initiated by Donald and vice-captain Edoardo Molinari, promising that every effort would be made to ensure the team is ready for the unique challenges of the Ryder Cup.
Reflecting on his 2023 experience, Straka shared, “My expectations were incredibly high, and the event surpassed them all. The crowd was electrifying, and being on that first tee with Shane was unforgettable.” He anticipates that while the environment at Bethpage will differ from Rome, the camaraderie among the team will remain strong.
As a three-time winner on the PGA Tour, Straka is also eyeing a major championship, with the Open Championship at Royal Portrush in July at the forefront of his ambitions. “I’ve improved significantly in links golf, and I feel that my skills are well-suited for that particular major,” he noted. Straka expressed his determination to approach the Open with a mindset of enjoyment, acknowledging that playing under challenging conditions is part of the game.
Stay tuned for more updates and insights as Straka continues to pursue his goals in professional golf.